Citizen science; volunteers needed for lakes, rivers, streams

ST. GEORGE – Utah Water Watch is offering training Friday and Saturday for new and experienced volunteers in a citizen science program that keeps tabs on Southern Utah streams, rivers and lakes.

Supplies for Tier II water testing with the Utah Water Watch program, Santa Clara River, Utah, May 21, 2016 | Photo by Julie Applegate, St. George News

The Utah Water Watch program is managed by Utah State University Water Quality Extension in partnership with the Utah Division of Water Quality and offers an early warning system for watershed managers.

Volunteers are needed to perform simple monthly water checks at various locations across Southern Utah; more experienced volunteers are being sought as well, program coordinator Ellen Bailey said.

After training, water testers visit their sites and make field observations about water surface, clarity, color, odor, algae cover and more, and perform simple tests for oxygen content, pH, turbidity and other factors.

Anyone with an interest can volunteer including individuals, church groups, teachers and outdoor enthusiasts; testing sites are available in both urban and rural areas.

Tier 1 training is open to the public and is excellent for families, clubs, teachers and interested citizens. Tier 2, or advanced training, is open to the public but geared towards those with prior monitoring experience, including current Tier 1 volunteers.

Tier 1 training

The class will start indoors and introduce the basics of water quality and watersheds, then move outdoors. Tier 1 volunteers will be asked to monitor a location on a monthly basis. For more information, go here.

Tier 2 volunteers will be asked to help on monitoring projects as needed.

The training will start indoors with an introduction to water quality management in Utah, local issues and efforts.

The group will then travel to an outdoor location to practice monitoring techniques. Participants should bring hats, sunscreen, water and shoes to wear by the stream. Boots and waders will be available and lunch will be provided.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2017, all rights reserved.

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About the Author

Julie Applegate is a long-time resident and fan of Southern Utah. She brings a strong background in news writing and editing, formerly as a full-time member of the St. George News team and currently as a contributor. Julie spent several years in the software industry. She believes strongly in the role of responsible news media in society, especially at the local level.
In her spare time, Julie can be found exploring Southern Utah on foot and by four-wheel drive or spending time with her family.